The skincare industry can often be a confusing place for consumers. With a multitude of products on the market, each boasting a plethora of health claims, it can be difficult to discern which products truly deliver on their promises. Unfortunately, not all manufacturers are truthful in their claims, and some may greatly exaggerate the benefits of their products. This can leave consumers feeling out-of-pocket and underwhelmed.

It is therefore crucial to perform due diligence when shopping for skincare products. Rather than taking claims about products at face value, it is important to delve deeper into the ingredients used within the product. This can provide a more accurate assessment of whether or not the product will truly live up to its claims.

In this article, we will be critically analyzing the Ultra-Gentle Cleanser by Paula’s Choice. We will be examining the claims made about this product, comparing them to the ingredients used, and performing a truth assessment to establish whether or not this product can deliver on its promises.

So, without further ado, let’s look at the main claims being made about the Ultra-Gentle Cleanser and break them down:

Claim #1: The Product Gently Removes Makeup and Impurities

Paula’s Choice’s Website States: “This soothing formula gently removes makeup and impurities…”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The ingredients Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate and Cocamidopropyl Betaine are both gentle surfactants, which are compounds that help to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin. They work by breaking down the oils that hold makeup and impurities to the skin, allowing them to be washed away. Glycerin is also a humectant that can help to dissolve makeup and impurities, making them easier to remove.

Claim #2: The Product Supports Skin’s Barrier

Paula’s Choice’s Website States: “…while supporting skin’s barrier…”

Truth Assessment: Possibly

Explanation: The ingredient Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is an emollient that can help to replenish the skin’s barrier. Glycerin is a humectant that can help to maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance, which is important for the health of the skin’s barrier. However, whether or not these ingredients can truly support the skin’s barrier may depend on individual skin types and conditions, as well as other factors such as the overall formulation of the product and how it is used.

Claim #3: The Product Leaves Skin Feeling Refreshed, Soothed and Softer

Paula’s Choice’s Website States: “…leaving skin feeling refreshed, soothed and softer than before.”

Truth Assessment: Possibly

Explanation: The ingredients Glycerin and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride can help to moisturize the skin, which may leave it feeling softer. The ingredient Inulin is a prebiotic that can help to soothe the skin. However, whether or not the skin feels refreshed, soothed, and softer after using this product may depend on individual skin types and conditions, as well as other factors such as the overall formulation of the product and how it is used.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 7/10

Overall likelihood for product to make good on its claims: Likely

The product’s claims of gently removing makeup and impurities, supporting the skin’s barrier, and leaving skin feeling refreshed, soothed, and softer are largely supported by the ingredients used in its formulation. However, it’s important to note that individual skin types and conditions, as well as other factors such as the overall formulation of the product and how it is used, can influence the effectiveness of these ingredients.

Users should be mindful that while the ingredients listed have been shown to have the properties claimed by the product, the effectiveness of these ingredients can depend on their concentration in the product. In skincare formulas, ingredient lists are ordered by weight, but this doesn’t necessarily reflect the concentration of each ingredient. For example, an ingredient listed towards the end of the list may still be present in an effective concentration.

Remember, when assessing the claims of a skincare product, it’s important to look beyond the marketing and examine the ingredients and their concentrations. Be skeptical of claims that seem too good to be true or that aren’t supported by the ingredients used in the product. And always keep in mind that everyone’s skin is different, so what works for one person may not work for another.

This product review has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The review is conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, who utilizes a variety of reliable sources to ensure the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information provided. These sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), and The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, various publicly available sources are also consulted to provide a well-rounded perspective on the product under review.